Russia voices concern over use of satellites to interfere in other nations' affairs

Russia's Foreign Ministry has said it is concerned about the use of satellites to interfere in the internal affairs of other nations, and has called for clearer international regulation of such systems.

According to the ministry, Moscow is advocating what it describes as transparent regulation of the use of satellite systems, along with compliance by satellite operators with the national laws of the countries in which they operate. The statement did not name specific satellite operators or incidents.

Push for regulation

The comments reflect a broader position Russia has taken in international forums regarding the governance of satellite technology, an area that has grown in prominence as commercial and government satellite networks have expanded their reach and capabilities in recent years.

Questions over satellite governance have become more prominent internationally as satellite communications and imaging systems have been used in various contexts, including conflicts and political disputes, raising questions among governments about sovereignty, security and the appropriate limits on how such systems can be used.

Russia's Foreign Ministry did not detail specific proposals for how such regulation would be structured or through which international body it might be pursued, but reiterated its position that satellite operators should be expected to comply with the domestic laws of the countries in which they operate.